How to Write an In-Text Citation Without Author
Writing an in-text citation without an author can sometimes be challenging, especially when dealing with sources that do not provide author information. However, it is essential to include in-text citations to give credit to the original source and avoid plagiarism. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an in-text citation without an author, ensuring that you adhere to proper citation conventions.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the specifics of writing an in-text citation without an author, it is crucial to understand the basic structure of an in-text citation. Typically, an in-text citation includes the author’s last name and the year of publication. For example: (Smith, 2020). However, when the author’s name is not available, you will need to modify the format accordingly.
Using the Title as a Citation
When an author’s name is not provided, you can use the title of the source as a substitute. To do this, place the title in parentheses, followed by the year of publication. For example: (Title of the Source, 2020). It is important to note that the title should be written in quotation marks if it is a shorter work, such as an article or a chapter, and in italics if it is a longer work, such as a book or a journal.
Using a Corporate Author
If the source is produced by a corporate author, such as a government agency or an organization, you can use the name of the organization as the author in the in-text citation. For example: (United States Department of Health and Human Services, 2020). In this case, you do not need to include the title of the source in the citation.
Using a Numbered Reference
If the source is part of a larger work, such as an article within a journal or a chapter within a book, you can use a numbered reference to cite the source. In this case, you will need to include the number assigned to the source in your text, followed by the year of publication. For example: (1, 2020). This method is commonly used in academic writing when citing sources within a reference list.
Conclusion
Writing an in-text citation without an author may seem daunting, but by following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are properly crediting the original source while adhering to citation conventions. Remember to always check the specific guidelines provided by your institution or publisher, as citation styles may vary. By using the title, corporate author, or numbered reference, you can effectively cite sources without an author in your in-text citations.
